Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince Simelane, expressed optimism regarding the newly appointed Judicial Service Commission (JSC) and its potential to improve the conditions of service for judicial officers in the country.
This statement was made during a session in the House of Assembly on May 22, 2025, where he presented a report on the deteriorating conditions faced by members of the judiciary.
Concerns Raised by MPs
During the debate, Members of Parliament (MPs) highlighted several critical issues affecting the judiciary:
– Low Salaries: Many judicial officers, particularly magistrates, are reportedly receiving salaries that do not adequately motivate them, contributing to a backlog of cases.
– Lack of Resources: There is a significant shortage of necessary working tools for judicial officers, hindering their ability to perform their duties effectively.
The MPs emphasized that these conditions are unfit for individuals in such important positions, which ultimately affects the efficiency of the judicial system.
Minister’s Challenges
Minister Prince Simelane acknowledged the validity of the MPs’ concerns but noted the challenges he faces due to the separation of powers doctrine. This doctrine delineates the independence of the three branches of government: the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary. He mentioned that attempts to investigate or address these issues often lead to reminders about the boundaries of his ministerial role concerning judicial matters.
Proposed Collaborative Efforts
To address these pressing issues, the minister proposed a meeting involving key figures such as:
– Prime Minister Russell Dlamini
– Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala
– House of Assembly Speaker Jabulani Mabuza
– Senate President Lindiwe Dlamini
– Attorney General Sifiso Khumalo
The goal of this meeting would be to explore ways in which the three branches of government can collaborate effectively to enhance service delivery and improve conditions within the judiciary.
Conclusion
Despite the minister’s hopes for improvement with the JSC’s establishment, the MPs ultimately decided not to adopt the report, citing the need for further investigations into the judiciary’s conditions. This reflects ongoing concerns about the effectiveness and support for judicial officers in their roles.
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